Standard of Excellence Band Method

by Bruce Pearson / Neil A. Kjos Music Company

Comprehensive Instrumental Pedagogy for School Bands

Written by renowned educator Bruce Pearson and published by Neil A. Kjos Music Company, Standard of Excellence is a benchmark curriculum for school band instruction. Renowned for its thorough technical sequence and strong integration of general music education principles, this method ensures a well-rounded foundation for young instrumentalists.

Core Pedagogical Features

Sequential Finger and Note Progressions: Introduces notes and rhythms in a highly logical sequence that matches the natural acoustic and ergonomic tendencies of each instrument.
Three-Pronged Educational Design: Integrates instrumental performance technique directly with:
- Music Theory: Rhythmic dictation, composition prompts, and key signature identification.
- Music History: Explanations of performance eras, folk traditions, and composer backgrounds.
- Interdisciplinary Studies: Links music concepts to science, mathematics, geography, and language arts.
Standard of Excellence Interactive (IPAS): Features interactive practice studio software containing accompaniment tracks, tempo adjustment controls, and metronomes to support home practice.
Ensemble Excellence Sections: Specialized full-band warm-ups, scale exercises, technical drills, and choral arrangements placed at the back of each book to streamline rehearsal preparation.